By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) has officially launched the Nigeria Fire Extinguisher Control (NFEC) system and its supporting initiative, the Gas Explosion Prevention System (GEPS), at its headquarters in Asokoro, Abuja.
This proactive move addresses the increasing risks posed by faulty fire extinguishers and gas-related incidents, often stemming from counterfeit products, poor regulation, and unsafe practices in both formal and informal sectors.
In his remarks, FEMD Director General, Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, described the NFEC as a strategic intervention aimed at reforming the fire extinguisher industry by tackling issues such as illegal refilling, substandard equipment, and unauthorized dealers.
“NFEC is designed to ensure fire extinguishers are safe, functional, and properly maintained to reduce the risk of fire emergencies,” he noted.
Engr. Mohammed also emphasized that GEPS works in tandem with NFEC to address gas safety, introducing mandatory training for LPG retailers and joint enforcement efforts across the gas distribution network.
“This system will enforce a safety-first approach, reducing gas explosion incidents by strengthening compliance and awareness,” he added.
Speaking at the event, NFEC National Coordinator, Mr. Benson Olatunji, stated that both systems aim to reduce fire and gas emergencies through effective tracking, maintenance alerts, and enforcement mechanisms.
He revealed that expired or substandard gas cylinders are a leading cause of explosions, and the new system will log expiry dates, issue alerts, and facilitate accountability in case of failures.
Mr. Olatunji further stressed that the initiative serves as a platform to educate the public, enforce regulations, and ultimately protect lives and property.
Mr. Anas Sulieman, Controller of Inspection, Investigation, and Enforcement at the Federal Fire Service, raised concerns over the misuse of fire extinguishers for criminal activities, emphasizing the need to cleanse the sector of bad actors. He urged the public to buy fire safety equipment only from authorized dealers.
Concluding the event, Mr. Monday Udei, Head of the Search and Rescue Unit at FEMD, commended stakeholders for their support and reaffirmed the department’s dedication to making the FCT safer for all.
Representatives from the Nigerian Army, FCT Fire Service, Federal Fire Service, Police, VIO, NSCDC, and the National Emergency Management Agency were among the key stakeholders in attendance.
This landmark initiative underscores FEMD’s unwavering commitment to public safety through innovation, regulation, and collaboration.
